Paddle Into Zanesville’s Living History at Lock 10

ZANESVILLE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Paddle Into Zanesville’s Living History at Lock 10

A guided, 3–4 hour kayak trip from Float the River Zanesville that visits Ohio’s only double‑chamber lock and is led by local legend Jodi “Dutch” Holland.

Paddle Into Zanesville’s Living History at Lock 10.

Duration
3-4 Hours
Location
Zanesville
Operator
Float the River Zanesville
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Launch from Float the River Zanesville and drift straight into history: this guided Lock 10 Kayak Tour takes paddlers to Ohio’s only double‑chamber lock, brings you face to face with working 19th‑century hydraulics, and routes past the city’s iconic bridges before finishing at Putnam Landing.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE HISTORY

Lock 10 — a working double‑chamber relic

Lock 10 was built in the 1800s and remains the only double chamber lock system in Ohio; the tour shows it operating much as it did 170 years ago.

THE GUIDE

Meet Jodi “Dutch” Holland — the keeper of lock stories

Your encounter at Lock 10 is led by Jodi “Dutch” Holland, a former ODNR lockmaster whose local knowledge and first‑hand stories animate the river’s past.

THE ROUTE

Bridges, lock passage and Putnam Landing

The paddle threads past the 6th Street Bridge and Zanesville’s historic Y Bridge, floats through the lock system, and returns to finish at Putnam Landing.

What the day feels like

What the paddle feels like

Over three to four hours you’ll be geared up and briefed, then eased onto calm water for a guided journey that pairs easy paddling with concentrated history: arriving at the lock, hearing Dutch’s accounts, gliding beneath the 6th Street Bridge and the Y Bridge, and finishing at Putnam Landing.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who gets the most out of this trip — and who should think twice.

1
History BuffsIdeal — the tour centers on Lock 10’s unique double‑chamber system and on‑site storytelling by a former lockmaster.
2
Active FamiliesGood fit for families with children aged 12 and up who can handle a 3–4 hour excursion and basic paddling.
3
Beginner PaddlersAccessible — operator provides kayaks, a safety briefing, and guides the group, making it suitable for paddlers with limited experience.
4
Group OutingsWell suited — the tour runs for groups up to 30 people and private tours are available for groups of 10 or more.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Plan for a 3–4 hour outing.

What to Bring

Do not bring alcohol, glass containers, disposable plastic bottles or bags, Bluetooth speakers, or anything sharp or bulky; do not bring your own kayak — equipment is provided.

Meeting & Check‑in

Arrive 15 minutes early and check in at Float the River Zanesville (126 Muskingum Ave Suite P, Zanesville, OH 43701) so staff can fit your gear and give a safety rundown.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The Lock 10 Kayak Tour runs about 3–4 hours.

Where do we meet?

Check in at Float the River Zanesville (126 Muskingum Ave Suite P, Zanesville, OH); please arrive 15 minutes early for gear fitting and the safety briefing.

Is this a guided trip and who leads it?

Yes — the tour is guided and includes a visit with Jodi “Dutch” Holland, a former ODNR lockmaster who shares local lock history.

What should I not bring?

Do not bring alcohol, glass containers, disposable plastic bottles or bags, Bluetooth speakers, or anything sharp or bulky; personal kayaks are not needed.

Can I book a private tour for a larger group?

Yes — the operator can set up a special tour for groups of 10 or more; standard tours accommodate up to 30 people.

Should I book online?

Booking online is highly recommended, as tours fill quickly.